Street Disorder, Homelessness, and Addiction Issues
- I will advocate from my council position at meetings such as the UBCM and with Provincial officials to:
- Look at the renewal agreement Island Health has with regards to the 'Wellness Centre' on York St. with the possibility of asking to halt any annual renewals needed to run the 'overdose prevention centre' - Thus reducing negative impacts on businesses, their customers, and supporting public safety including students walking to and from the schools.
- The creation of stronger local bylaws on open drug use that should be enforced especially around schools and parks
- Stop more 'housing first' models that are causing so much harm through enablement and secluded drug use. Advocate for dry living housing so that elders, those newly sober, those with young children, or escaping abuse, have the chance at a safe/affordable space .
North Cowichan's council is often at the whim of the Province and The Federal Government's ideas and plans around this sad topic. It is going to take council members and whole councils province-wide to push back for our communities, and ultimately for the well being of the lost souls that need a 'push' in the right direction. All are God's children.